Rediscovering Ganeshotsav: Manaat Morya initiative offers VIP access to grand Ganesh pandals; Participants reflect on the cultural significance of the festival

This Ganeshotsav, Pune Times’ Manaat Morya initiative combined devotion with an exclusive experience. Ten lucky winners from hundreds of entries got a chance to take VIP darshan at some of the most prominent Ganpati pandals in the city, including Kasba Ganpati, Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati, Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganpati, Guruji Talim Ganpati, Tulshibaug Ganpati and Shrimant Dagdusheth Ganpati. Led by Jayesh Paranjape, founder of The Western Routes, this guided walk was part darshan, part storytelling, and part rediscovery of what Ganeshotsav means to Pune and Punekars. Adding sparkle to the morning, familiar faces from Marathi cinema and theatre walked shoulder to shoulder with readers, bringing star power and personal memories into the mix. How the walk unfolded Kasba Ganpati – Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati – Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganpati – Guruji Talim Ganpati – Tulshibaug Ganpati – Dagdusheth Ganpati – Refreshments at Poona Guest House Kasba Ganpati Pune's gram daivat, Kasba Ganpati, was the first stop of the walk. Participants got an understanding of the celebrations rooted in traditions. Abhinay Berde also performed aarti at the pandal. He said, “As a history buff, this was more than just darshan for me. Pune’s Ganeshotsav feels surreal, divine and is steeped in history and culture.” Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari GanpatiThe Ganeshotsav celebrations here were started in 1892 by Bhausaheb Rangari. The idol, made of wood and bran, depicts Bappa in a rare form; slaying a demon, the demon being a metaphor for the British during India's freedom struggle. Content creator Prasad Vidhate performed aarti at the pandal. Tambdi Jogeshwari GanpatiThe Maanacha Dusra, Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganpati embodies the city’s fierce spirit. Actor Sourabh Gokhale shared, “Every beat of the dhol and every aarti is divine and connected to this city’s heartbeat during Ganeshotsav.” Participant Prapti Dhumal added, “Waking up early for this was totally worth it.” Guruji Talim GanpatiThe Maanacha tisra, Guruji Talim Ganpati was established jointly by Hindu and Muslim families and became a symbol of communal harmony. Shivraj Waichal, director of the Marathi film, took Bappa’s blessings here and shared, “My father worked here as a photographer for 20 years, capturing the crowds and the miravnuk. Visiting the pandal as a guest this time felt like a full circle.” Tulshibaug Ganpati This beautiful 14-foot idol of the Maanacha chautha, Tulshibaug Ganpati, is adorned with ornate jewellery and beautiful decorations. Founded by the late artist and sculptor Dattatray Shridhar Khatavkar, this one is situated in the middle of the bustling Tulshibaug market. Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati The final stop was the city’s iconic Shrimant Dagdusheth Ganpati pandal. With its gilded idol and legacy of philanthropy, Dagdusheth remains Pune’s most-visited temple. Actor couple Virajas Kulkarni and Shivani Rangole performed aarti here. Virajas shared, “As kids, my friends and I would end our pandal walks here. Coming back with Shivani after years felt like revisiting those memories, but with new meaning. A warm and delicious conclusion The trail ended at another iconic place, the Poona Guest House, one of the city’s oldest and most beloved eateries. Participants spoke about their experience at the Manaat Morya trail over plates of hot batata wada and steaming cups of chai. The familiar aroma and relaxed chatter made for the perfect wind-down, giving everyone a chance to let the experience sink in. “Growing up in Pune, I only ever saw the grandeur of Ganeshotsav from outside. This initiative gave me the chance to understand how much significance the festival has, not just culturally but historically too.” -Siddharth Menon, actor “Every year I pass Kasba Ganpati during the rush, but I never thought I’d get the chance to stand this close and join the aarti. The moment felt surreal, like the kind of experience you can only be blessed with.” -Rahul Shah, a participant “I came here for darshan and left with a perspective. The Bhausaheb Rangari Ganpati’s eyes hold pure valour, reminding us of the strength within.” -Priyadarshini Indalkar, actor Walking into these sacred and historic spaces was unforgettable. My mother joined me for the walk and watching her face light up made this journey even more special for me.” -Rashmi Bajpai, participant “Getting Bappa’s darshan this closely felt like a blessing that came my way through this trail. It reminded me of what truly matters - faith, community and moments like these.” -Prasad Vidhate, content creator